teint
/tɛ̃/
The English word complexion is translated into French as teint.
teint refers specifically to the appearance, color and quality of the skin on a person's face. It is important to note that the French word complexion does not mean the same thing. In French, complexion refers to a person's overall constitution or character rather than their skin.
Meaning: appearance of the skin on the face (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun teint is masculine and is almost always used with the definite article le. When describing someone's complexion, French uses the construction avoir le teint (to have the complexion) instead of using an indefinite article.
How do you pronounce it?
/tɛ̃/
Did you know?
- The French word teint shares a common ancestor with the English word 'tint', both originating from the Latin word for 'dyeing' or 'coloring'.
- While teint focuses on the face, the broader term carnation is used in French to describe the natural color of the skin across the entire body.
- In French, the expression avoir le teint frais describes a healthy, glowing complexion. This is often used in beauty and skincare contexts to imply a youthful and rested appearance.
Examples in context
- Elle a le teint pâle.She has a pale complexion.This sentence is useful for describing someone with a pale complexion using teint.Tatoeba #3259922 by Micsmithel, translation #3259923 by sundown
- Elle a le teint clair.She has a fair complexion.This sentence is useful for describing someone with a fair complexion using teint.Tatoeba #9161124 by Julien_PDC, translation #315092 by CK
- Son teint pâle est dû à l'anémie.Her pale complexion is the result of anaemia.This sentence is useful for explaining that a pale complexion is caused by anaemia using teint.Tatoeba #9815183 by lbdx, translation #8953394 by Nylez
- Elle a un teint pâleShe has a pale complexion
- Il a une belle peauHe has a nice complexion
- Elle a un visage lumineuxShe has a radiant complexion
- Il a l'air fatigué, il a une mauvaise mineHe looks tired, he has a bad complexion
- Avoir un teint frais et éclatant est un signe de bonne santé.Having a fresh and radiant complexion is a sign of good health.
- 4 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about skincare products.
- ChloéTu trouves que mon teint est un peu terne ?Do you think my complexion is a bit dull?
- NathanPas du tout, tu as un teint magnifique.Not at all, you have a beautiful complexion.
- ChloéC'est gentil, merci Nathan.That's kind, thanks Nathan.
- NathanJe dis la vérité, Chloé.I'm telling the truth, Chloé.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry teint, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries teint, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
